Citizen science can take on many different meanings as a result of the various science branches in which non-specialized citizens can participate. When I first started working with MeadoWatch, I had a rough idea of citizen science but did not yet realize its usefulness and necessity, nor its extent! Citizen science allows for anyone to be part of the experimental process, which makes for more data collection and a tighter-knit community. In addition to MeadoWatch, there are several other citizen science programs run out of University of Washington. If you are interested in joining other programs, here are a few in Washingotn!
COASST “The Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST) is a 19 year old citizen science project housed at the University of Washington and focused on the beach environment of the northeast Pacific. Since our beginning, over 1,000 participants on more than 450 beaches spanning four states have contributed directly to monitoring their local marine resources and ecosystem health.”
Rare Plant Monitoring Project “Would you like to help conserve Washington’s native plants and at the same time learn about some of the rarest plants in the state? Rare Care has volunteer positions all around the state to suit people with a wide range of interests and botanical knowledge. Volunteers participate in all aspects of our work.”
Amphibian Monitoring “Amphibian monitoring is an exciting opportunity to get hands-on experience with amphibian conservation while increasing your connection to local ponds and wetlands and contributing to authentic scientific research.”
Carnivore Spotter “The Seattle Urban Carnivore project is a partnership between Woodland Park Zoo and Seattle University and aims to explore how mammalian carnivores live and interact with people across urban and suburban areas in the Seattle region.”
There are many more than those listed here, so I recommend exploring online to find more programs that catch your interest!
Happy sciencing!
Jordana
MeadoWatch 